Monthly Archives: April 2021

Interactive Video-mapped using Projectors

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Have you ever seen floors, walls, or objects with abstract light and shadow effects, that look like they are coming to life? If so, you probably saw a version of video mapping or projection mapping. Lighting a 3D object or an irregular shape with a digital display is called video mapping or projection mapping. Video/projection mapping had been popular with DJ artists using lights from projectors to enhance the audio with synced visuals. Recently, projection mapping has been used on a large scale projection such as Cinderella Castle in Disney Parks, which is used to project special 3D events and shows. Large scale projection mapping like this uses large projectors with 20,000 lumens output or greater. Video mapping has also become more mainstream with the accessibility to many different types of projectors as well as specialized software to help design and map the projection. 

Video and projection mapping is not easy work as it requires a lot of planning as well as learning 3D modelling. If you are thinking of creating your own interactive video mapping project, here are some simplified steps that might help you understand the process. A more detailed instruction can be found at Make an Affordable Interactive Videomapped Installation. The first step is to determine what image or video to project as well as the object or surface that you want to project on. After that, you would need to find out what projector you want to use based on your where, how, and what you are planning on doing for the mapping. You want to install the projector at a fixed location. Next, you are going to need to design your image to fit with the surface that you are working on. On irregular surfaces, you will need video mapping software such as MadMapper, HeavyM, Qlab, Troixatronix’s Isadora, FaçadeSignage, ArKaos, or Photopshop to help you edit your design. If you are able to get your design, the next step is to use your projector to display your designs. For more examples for creative ideas, you can check out: Top 20 Best Projection Mapping Examples. For smaller scale video mapping on everyday objects, check out this Projection Mapping website.

AAXA P6X Portable Projector Vs. Dr. J HI-04 Mini Projector Comparison

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Having trouble deciding what type of mini projector you want? Well look no further, we went and did a review and comparison on some of the most frequently bought mini projectors on the market, the AAXA P6X Portable Projector with 4-Hour Battery and 1000 LED Lumen on Battery (Eco Mode), and the Dr. J HI-04 Mini Projector 1080P Full HD Resolution. We based this comparison on a few factors that matter the most when looking to purchase a home movie projector; portability, resolution, and brightness.

*Scroll down for shop links of the two mini projectors.

Portability

Starting things off with portability;  the P6X Mini Projector boasts a weight of only 1.81 lb and with the dimensions, 6.25″ x 6.2″ x 1.85″. Whereas the Dr.J HI-04  mini projector weighs in at 3.00 lb with the dimensions 7.80″ x 6.02″ x 2.7″. Based on these specs the P6X mini projector seems to have the advantage in terms of portability, this matters mainly for anyone that tends to travel or has to meet certain criteria in terms of placement looking for a portable projector. 

Resolution

Right up next we have the resolution; the P6X portable projector native resolution starts at 1280×800 and a max resolution of 1920×1080.  The Dr.J Mini projector HI-04’s native resolution starts at 1280×720 and a max resolution of 1920×1080. In terms of native resolution, the P6X Portable Projector has the upper hand, having a better-projecting resolution at the start. However, in terms of max resolution, the two mini projectors are neck and neck! I can definitely see both of these projectors being used as outdoor projectors for family home theaters.

Brightness

Next, we have brightness; the P6X mini portable projector has a lumen rating of 1000 Lumens, whereas the Dr. J projector HI-04 does not have any information on the number of lumens it has. Based on what I see the P6X portable projector is a lot brighter in comparison to the Dr.J HI-04 mini projector, overall both have great brightness with neither being too dim.

Results

Overall it’s hard to say which mini projector triumphs over the other, both mini projectors have their pros and their cons. I wouldn’t say that one would is better than the other,  both range at different price points and are aimed towards two different audiences. Be sure to look for the mini projector that is the best fit for you and has the functions you really need.  Let us know what you think!

Link: AAXA P6X Pico Projector $359.99

Link: DR. J HI-04 Mini Projector $94.99

Top 3 Short-Throw Projectors for Home Entertainment Setup

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If you are serious about setting up a home theater entertainment system, you should consider getting a short-throw projector. A short-throw projector typically produces a brighter, more vibrant picture than a standard projector. A short-throw projector or ultra-short-throw projector (UST) can cast a brilliant and clear image from only a few feet or inches away. Short-throw projectors have many advantages over traditional standard throw or long-throw projectors. The main advantage of a short-throw projector is the ability to cast an over 100-inch image even in a tight space. If you want a projector in your living room or bedroom, a short-throw projector/ultra-short throw projector is perfect in situations with limited space. 

  1. Optoma X309ST Projector – $599

The Optoma X309ST Projector is the cheapest option out of the three short-throw projectors. The 0.62:1 short-throw ratio, 3,700 ANSI Lumens brightness, and 25,000:1 contrast ratio, enable 100-inch projection from several feet away. This is ideal for small conference rooms, bed rooms, living rooms, and other space-constrained environments. The speaker is a clear, powerful audio 10W speaker, which will sound great in a small room. The main downside of this short-throw projector is the 1024×768 resolution, which is somewhat offset by the amazing 3,700 ANSI Lumens brightness at a short distance. 

  1. BenQ TH671ST– $799

BenQ  is a major player in the monitor and projector space, and its TH671ST gaming and cinema projector is perfect for users looking for a short-throw projector at lower and more competitive prices. The BenQ TH671ST short-throw projector can easily replace a large TV in your living room, and it’s capable of equally delivering a satisfying gaming or cinema experience. The projector has a 1920×1080(FHD) resolution with a 3,000 ANSI lumens brightness and can project up to 100-inch picture at 5 feet away. In addition to the long list of premium features, this unit is lightweight and portable enough to take on the road or game with friends. Best of all, this projector’s price starts at $699 and comes with a three years warranty. However, I wished that the projector would come with USB-C, allowing for different options to connect and play movies from different USB-C devices.  

  1. PowerLite 530 XGA 3LCD Projector – $949

The PowerLite 530 XGA 3LCD Projector from Epson starts at $949. This short-throw projector offers 3200 lumens of color brightness (color light output) and 3200 lumens of white brightness (white light output). This short-throw projector can be mounted 4 feet away from the board or wall, and the projected image can get as large as 108″ diagonal. The PowerLite 530 also features management software which allows users to wirelessly share and play movies/pictures from the computers, as well as iOS and Android devices.

This Fake Window trend is going viral on TikTok-Here’s how to do it with a projector!

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I’m sure if you’re an avid TikTok user, you already know about the many trends that arise from the app. One of the latest trends that are going viral on the app is the “Fake Window” Challenge. How it works is very simple and anyone can do it, so long as you have the right tools (hint: projector?)

What is the “Fake Window” Challenge?

The “Fake Window” challenge is exactly as the name states, a fake window. This is done by using a projector in your room to project a video of a fake window. This gives off the appearance that the view from your bedroom could literally be anything! During times like this when it’s normal to stay home, being able to have a change of scenery in the comfort of your bedroom is great.

There are two things you will need for this challenge to work:

  1. A fake window video/gif(can be found on the internet)
  2. A projector (doesn’t need to be something fancy)

Finding the best “Fake Window”

Do a quick google search and you’ll be able to find a lot of different fake window images. Most people usually use videos to give off that super-realistic feeling where they can not only see but hear as well! These videos can easily be found on YouTube, here’s a link to one:

The Best Projector for YOU

There isn’t necessarily a perfect projector for this challenge to work. Obviously, some projectors are overall better than those that aren’t nearly as good, but people shouldn’t be limited to expensive choices. An example of a good projector at an average price would be the AAXA BP1 Bluetooth Speaker Projector ($155 USD).

Buy: AAXA BP1 Bluetooth Speaker Projector

AAXA is well known for its PICO (portable and mini) projectors, making their projectors a perfect example of this type of challenge. We wouldn’t want to have a super big projector bringing in heat when doing this challenge (especially since summer is just around the corner), we want to be able to show you something that affordable and convenient! The BP1 Bluetooth Speaker Projector as the name states is a mini projector and a speaker at the same time. This portable projector will get you the best of both worlds in terms of picture quality and ambient sounds to soothe you while you lay near your fake window.

Buy: AAXA P300 Neo 420 Lumen Pico Projector

Another contender that would be great for this challenge is another projector from AAXA, the P300 Neo 420 Lumen Pico Projector($294 USD). With its sleek design, lightweight, and native 720p resolution, you best believe you’ll have an amazing experience with this mini projector, not just with the “Fake Window” challenge but with many different uses as well! This mini projector is great for the challenge especially if you’re looking to have it running without being plugged in. Wait, did I forget to mention that it has a rechargeable battery? Well, that’s a bonus in itself, you won’t be limited to a fixed location and you can place it anywhere you want since its keystone function will allow you to adjust the vertical angle from where you place the projector.

So what are you waiting for? Go get a projector and download the best “fake window” image or video you can find, and let us know your results!

Top 5 High-end Home Theater Projectors

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If you are looking to buy the best high-end 4K projectors for your home theater setup, then these top 5 high-end home theater projectors are the way to go. Between $3,000 and $4,999, you’ll find the true native 4K projectors offering the sharpest images as well as the least expensive home theater projectors with a laser light engine instead of a lamp. The projector screen will provide the best out-of-the-box color accuracy and brightness, perfect for a dark home theater. You will surely find one projector that fits you, whether the projector ultra short-throw beamer or a more compact HD model.

  1. Optoma CinemaX P2 Projector – $3299

The Optoma CinemaX P2 is a 4K Ultra Short Throw (UST) Projector up to 120” image with True 4K UHD resolution and HDR10 compatibility that ensures the Optoma CinemaX P2 renders vivid 4K UHD content. Enjoy smooth action-packed movements with PureMotion technology which processes videos filmed in 24fps and inserts transitional frames to compensate for motion blur and reduce motion judder, resulting in pure fluid motion, just perfect for your home theater. The Optoma also features Dolby Digital 2.0 soundbar with two full range speakers, two woofers, ported chambers, and 40-watts of power. The Smart+ technology enables Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, as well as iOS and Android app support, allowing you to control your home theater from anywhere in your home. 

  1. Sony VPL-VW295ES Projector– $4,999

If you are looking for a big screen high-end 4k projector,  the VW295ES 4K HDR Home Theater Projector sizes up to 200″ , which bring lifelike 4K HDR resolution to any room. Enjoy crisp, sharp pictures with 1,500 lumens of brightness with 4K Motionflow and Advanced Reality Creation technologies . The VPL-VW295ES has a native 4K SXRD panel,  HDCP 2.2 compatibility on both 18 Gbps HDMI inputs, and HDR capability. For gamers looking to play games on the big screen, the Input lag reduction ensures a faster refresh rate. 

  1. LG CineBeam AU810PB Projector–$3,999

The Lg CineBeam is a high-end projector with incomparable precision and detail up to 300-inch screen. The 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio Black level helps express the deep black, and accurately represents colors, thanks to a wide color gamut 97% of DCI-P3. This high-end 4k projector is best designed for bright and dark environments with the use of Brightness Optimizer (Iris Mode & Adaptive contrast).

  1. Samsung Premiere LSP7T Projector– $3,498

The Samsung 120” Laser Projector is a Ultra Short Throw and Compact Minimal Design High-end projector that brings the big theater screen experience home with cutting edge laser technology and 4K resolution. The Samsung Premiere LSP7T delivers cinema-like pictures and contrast with 2200 lumens, 2,000,000:1 dynamic contrast, and delivers dramatic home cinema viewing that’s just like being in a theater. This high-end projector features powerful Audio 2.2 Channel System and Built-in Alexa, the Google Assistant, and Bixby voice assistants let you control your projector with your voice from anywhere in your home. 

  1. Epson Home Cinema 5050UBe Projector– $3099

The Epson Home Cinema 5050UB 4K PRO-UHD is the cheapest high-end 4k projector on this list but still delivers an amazing 4K home theater experience for the DIY enthusiast. With a display of 2,600 lumens for both color and white brightness – the Home Cinema 5050UBe produces incredible brightness, color accuracy, and image detail using True 3-Chip Projector Design, Pixel-Shift Processor, Precision HDR Adjustment, and Extreme Color Gamut. All features that make the Epson Home Cinema perfect for enthusiasts with a budget.